WHO WE ARE
Ingrained Foundation is a not-for-profit funding platform taking an interconnected and collaborative approach to improving social and environment wellbeing, on Bundjalung Country - Northern NSW.
We pool donations from the community, directing them back to grassroots not-for-profits who are making meaningful change.
We exist to contribute to creating a regenerative region with thriving communities for future generations.
Our Story
Born out of the belief in reciprocity – caring for and giving back to the community you’re a part of – Ingrained Foundation was established in 2018.
Over the past 5 years, we have donated over $2.1 million through our annual grants rounds, fundraising, emergency relief funding and direct giving, across Australia.
Much of our impact to date is possible through the ongoing donations and support of Fermentum Group. Their original business Stone & Wood Brewing set up the Foundation as a Public Ancillary Fund with the intention of ensuring it would continue in perpetuity and consciously chose to set it up in a way so that others could also share their support.
Their team are actively involved in the Foundation through volunteering their skills, sitting on committees and volunteering with our community partners.
In 2023, we took a step back to reflect on where we’ve come from and how we can be of the most value, influencing the best outcomes for our community. Through developing our theory of change, it has informed our decision to focus our efforts on going deeper, rather than broader. ‘Less is more’ is a philosophy we have always subscribed to and our strategy reflects this, anchoring our work for now in the Northern Rivers, our home.
Our Board
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Chris is Chair of the Foundation.
As a Chartered Accountant, he brings a unique background to the board with experience across strategy, finance and accounting disciplines that has evolved from working in a mix of corporate, purpose-led and start-up businesses.
Originally from Melbourne, Chris relocated to the Northern Rivers with his wife and dog Leo in 2014. Outside the world of finance, Chris is a keen golfer and occasionally enjoys a paddle up the Brunswick River. Not many know that he is also an accomplished violinist.
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Jasmin is the foundation’s Executive Director.
She has over 10 years of experience building purpose-driven organisations' brands, fostering community connection and engagement, working in impact, leading with empathy and working to inspire change for a hopeful future.
She has worked across both purpose-led and not-for-profit organisations. She also helped establish the foundation in 2018 when she worked for Stone & Wood Brewing.
Jaz is happiest in nature, connecting with good people and immersed in the joyful world of her young son.
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Jahdon's professional journey unfolds across diverse landscapes, encompassing meaningful work with refugee communities, leadership roles in government programs, and his current position as the Sustainability Manager at Stone & Wood Brewing Company
His diverse and expansive background gives him a unique perspective in thinking laterally and wholistically – particularly in the realms of social and environmental impact. A whole-hearted supporter of localism, sustainability, and regenerative systems, Jahdon finds balance outside the professional arena by relishing slow moments in the Northern Rivers, where he enjoys time with family, friends, the ocean, literature, and music.
His educational background includes a Bachelor in Social Welfare and a Graduate Certificate in Business Philanthropy & Nonprofit Studies.
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Leena has over 20 years’ experience as a finance professional starting as a Chartered Accountant with PwC and then moving into finance roles in a range of industries including banking, funds management, consumer goods and retail.
Leena is currently Finance Director for Lion Australia, with over 16 years experience across various commercial, planning and strategy.
Sydney based but with strong ties to the Northern Rivers, happiest at the beach, travelling and with family.
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James is a Melbourne-based intellectual property lawyer, who specialises in the alcoholic beverage sector.
After starting his career with the global law firm, Baker McKenzie, James worked inhouse for a number of large corporates, before establishing his own legal practice in 2002. He has served on numerous industry boards and local educational institutions. Married with two children, he enjoys good food, bad golf and balanced IPAs.
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Rich has over 20 years experience in the Food & Beverage industry within New Zealand, UK and Australia. He is the Supply Chain Leader of Fermentum Craft Beer Co, our sister organisation.
Rich spends most of his spare time with his wife and three children, exploring their backyard in the beautiful Northern Rivers. He has a strong passion for bringing about positive social & environmental change in the local community.